13 answers
Ayomide
Student
Albany, New York
1
Question
13 answers
Patrick Stephan
Management
19
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Becoming a manger depends on the type of business the company does, however there’s a couple consistencies that all managers must familiarize themselves with.
1. People skills; A manager first manages people, then things. You have to know how to organize and direct a group of people, to show a path forward for good workers and encourage and motivate those lagging behind. You have to know how to deal with customers, how to craft interactions based on the circumstances. You can’t lose your cool or “give up”, and when one of your employees is sobbing in the back office or a customer falls down the stairs then has a heart attack you have to know what to do
2. You have to give more of your life to the company than a non-manager. Managers work more than 40 hours, period. Most work 50-60. You’ll get used to it. Stop calling in sick, stop showing up late, forget about excuses because they don’t matter.
3. You need to show financial responsibility for the business. Protect the business against financial loss, and look for opportunities for gain. Reduce waste, overtime and costs. Learn about your businesses Profit and Loss sheet (“P&L”, it’s usually an Excel spreadsheet). Learn about the budget, capital expenses, forecasting, etc.
4. Know “the answers”. Every problem has a solution. A manager has to know them. This usually can only come with experience but paying close attention to problems and solutions as they occur can speed up the process. The quicker you learn and remember, the quicker you will succeed.
Good luck in your future managerial role!
1. People skills; A manager first manages people, then things. You have to know how to organize and direct a group of people, to show a path forward for good workers and encourage and motivate those lagging behind. You have to know how to deal with customers, how to craft interactions based on the circumstances. You can’t lose your cool or “give up”, and when one of your employees is sobbing in the back office or a customer falls down the stairs then has a heart attack you have to know what to do
2. You have to give more of your life to the company than a non-manager. Managers work more than 40 hours, period. Most work 50-60. You’ll get used to it. Stop calling in sick, stop showing up late, forget about excuses because they don’t matter.
3. You need to show financial responsibility for the business. Protect the business against financial loss, and look for opportunities for gain. Reduce waste, overtime and costs. Learn about your businesses Profit and Loss sheet (“P&L”, it’s usually an Excel spreadsheet). Learn about the budget, capital expenses, forecasting, etc.
4. Know “the answers”. Every problem has a solution. A manager has to know them. This usually can only come with experience but paying close attention to problems and solutions as they occur can speed up the process. The quicker you learn and remember, the quicker you will succeed.
Good luck in your future managerial role!
Thank you for the advice, Patrick.
Ayomide
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3844
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Ayomide,
Here's your guide on how to climb the ladder and become a successful manager:
1. Get the Right Education:
Earn a Degree: Aim for a bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, finance, or a similar field. This is often a prerequisite for managerial roles.
Pursue Higher Education: Think about getting a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or a related field to broaden your knowledge and sharpen your skills.
2. Accumulate Relevant Experience:
Start Now: Seize opportunities to gain leadership experience early in your career, such as internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering.
Climb the Career Ladder: Ascend within an organization by accepting roles with more responsibility and leadership potential.
3. Hone Essential Skills:
Communication: Master the art of communication to express your ideas effectively and inspire your team.
Leadership: Cultivate leadership qualities like decision-making, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
Time Management: Learn to manage multiple tasks efficiently and prioritize effectively.
4. Display Your Competence:
Show Your Worth: Prove your leadership potential by consistently delivering results, taking the initiative, and showing commitment to your work.
Ask for Feedback: Regularly ask for feedback from your superiors and peers to identify areas you can improve and demonstrate your dedication to growth.
5. Connect and Cultivate Relationships:
Networking: Form professional connections in your industry through networking events, conferences, and online platforms like LinkedIn.
Mentorship: Find mentors who can guide and support you as you advance in your career.
6. Keep Learning and Stay Flexible:
Continuous Learning: Keep up with industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in your field.
Adaptability: Embrace change and be ready to adjust your management style as situations change.
By diligently following these steps and constantly striving to improve both professionally and personally, you'll boost your chances of becoming a successful manager.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used for this Guide:
Harvard Business Review: A trusted source for insights on management practices, leadership development, and career progression strategies.
Forbes: A resource-rich platform offering business trends, career advice, and tips for budding managers keen to progress.
LinkedIn Learning: An online learning platform offering courses on a range of topics, including management skills development, beneficial for those aiming to become managers.
These sources were used to ensure the provided information on becoming a manager is accurate and reliable.
May God bless you!
JC.
Here's your guide on how to climb the ladder and become a successful manager:
1. Get the Right Education:
Earn a Degree: Aim for a bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, finance, or a similar field. This is often a prerequisite for managerial roles.
Pursue Higher Education: Think about getting a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or a related field to broaden your knowledge and sharpen your skills.
2. Accumulate Relevant Experience:
Start Now: Seize opportunities to gain leadership experience early in your career, such as internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering.
Climb the Career Ladder: Ascend within an organization by accepting roles with more responsibility and leadership potential.
3. Hone Essential Skills:
Communication: Master the art of communication to express your ideas effectively and inspire your team.
Leadership: Cultivate leadership qualities like decision-making, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
Time Management: Learn to manage multiple tasks efficiently and prioritize effectively.
4. Display Your Competence:
Show Your Worth: Prove your leadership potential by consistently delivering results, taking the initiative, and showing commitment to your work.
Ask for Feedback: Regularly ask for feedback from your superiors and peers to identify areas you can improve and demonstrate your dedication to growth.
5. Connect and Cultivate Relationships:
Networking: Form professional connections in your industry through networking events, conferences, and online platforms like LinkedIn.
Mentorship: Find mentors who can guide and support you as you advance in your career.
6. Keep Learning and Stay Flexible:
Continuous Learning: Keep up with industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in your field.
Adaptability: Embrace change and be ready to adjust your management style as situations change.
By diligently following these steps and constantly striving to improve both professionally and personally, you'll boost your chances of becoming a successful manager.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used for this Guide:
Harvard Business Review: A trusted source for insights on management practices, leadership development, and career progression strategies.
Forbes: A resource-rich platform offering business trends, career advice, and tips for budding managers keen to progress.
LinkedIn Learning: An online learning platform offering courses on a range of topics, including management skills development, beneficial for those aiming to become managers.
These sources were used to ensure the provided information on becoming a manager is accurate and reliable.
May God bless you!
JC.
Anasa Lattibeaudaire
Career Counselor
24
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Anasa’s Answer
Hi Ayomide,
Becoming a manager means taking on a leadership role in your job. To do this, you should start by gaining experience in the area you want to manage. That means doing your job well and learning all you can. Also, try to become good at talking with and guiding other people. That's called leadership and communication skills. Look for chances to lead or take on more responsibility at work. Sometimes, taking classes or getting special certificates can help. It's also important to make friends and build relationships with people in your field. Finally, when you see a job for a manager, apply for it and show you can do the job. Keep learning and be ready to change with the times.
Best of luck!
Becoming a manager means taking on a leadership role in your job. To do this, you should start by gaining experience in the area you want to manage. That means doing your job well and learning all you can. Also, try to become good at talking with and guiding other people. That's called leadership and communication skills. Look for chances to lead or take on more responsibility at work. Sometimes, taking classes or getting special certificates can help. It's also important to make friends and build relationships with people in your field. Finally, when you see a job for a manager, apply for it and show you can do the job. Keep learning and be ready to change with the times.
Best of luck!
Thank you for the advice, Anasa.
Ayomide
Katherine Avery
Run a music studio and teach private music lessons; teach college-level religion classes
222
Answers
Spanish Fork, Utah
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
One thing to consider about working up to a manager job could be what you'll find in Ken Coleman's book From Paycheck to Purpose. It's good for sparking ideas.
Angel Varbev
3
Answers
Sofia, Bulgaria
Updated
Angel’s Answer
Not an easy one. You need to work hard developing many skills not only needed for your career. You need to understand other people, their desires on very deep level, their career aspirations their dreams and ideas connected to this position. You need to know how to motivate them to do more and more. Also you need to understand the all business you do and being able to assess which of your employees is perfect for certain job.
HPE volunteering team
HPE volunteering team
Amy Flynn
Consultant
2
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Amy’s Answer
It's fantastic to see your enthusiasm for becoming a people manager! Transitioning into a role that involves managing people is a wonderful opportunity for those who are passionate about helping others flourish in their careers and guiding them to make significant contributions. If you're keen on stepping into a people management role, I strongly suggest having a conversation with your current manager. You could potentially fill in for them during their vacation period, providing you with a hands-on experience of a manager's daily duties and responsibilities. Furthermore, offering to mentor a team member could also be a beneficial step towards your goal. Best of luck on your exciting journey!
Natalie LaChance
Sr. Analyst Instructional Designer
6
Answers
Gardendale, Alabama
Updated
Natalie’s Answer
Delighted to know you're interested in the journey to becoming a Manager. This is a popular career goal that requires a mix of education, hands-on experience, skill enhancement, and self-improvement. Here's some friendly advice on how to gear up for a management role:
1. Hone Your Leadership Skills:
- **Lead by Example**: Show the kind of behavior, work commitment, and attitude you'd want from your team.
- **Communicate Effectively**: Master the art of expressing your thoughts clearly and actively listening to your team.
- **Conflict Resolution**: Get good at handling disagreements and finding solutions.
2. Gather Relevant Experience:
- **Understand the Field**: Get a thorough grasp of the industry and the specific area you aim to manage.
- **Take Initiative**: Step up for projects that let you take the lead or show your leadership skills.
- **Seek Out Leadership Roles**: Even in non-managerial roles, find chances to lead a team.
3. Boost Your Management Knowledge:
- **Formal Education**: Think about pursuing degrees or certifications in business management or a related field.
- **Professional Development**: Participate in workshops, seminars, and courses on management techniques.
- **Stay Updated**: Stay on top of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in management.
4. Polish Your People Skills:
- **Team Building**: Learn how to inspire a team and create a cooperative environment.
- **Mentoring**: Look for mentoring opportunities, either as a mentor or a mentee.
- **Networking**: Forge connections within your industry and profession.
5. Grasp Business Basics:
- **Financial Acumen**: Gain a solid understanding of budgeting, financial reporting, and financial decision-making.
- **Strategic Thinking**: Learn to devise strategies that sync with the organization's objectives.
- **Operational Knowledge**: Understand how different parts of the business function and how they link together.
6. Define Clear Goals and Map Your Career Path:
- **Career Pathing**: Determine the steps needed to move from your current role to a management position.
- **Performance Goals**: Set and achieve performance goals that highlight your management potential.
7. Show Professionalism:
- **Work Ethic**: Be recognized for your dependability, commitment, and ethical behavior.
- **Continuous Improvement**: Always be on the lookout for ways to enhance your performance and that of your team.
8. Welcome Feedback and Act on It:
- **Constructive Criticism**: Embrace feedback and use it for professional growth.
- **Self-Assessment**: Regularly review your strengths and areas that need improvement.
9. Be Flexible:
- **Change Management**: Master the skill of guiding and leading through change.
- **Innovation**: Promote and apply innovative ideas and solutions.
10. Get Ready for Responsibilities:
- **Understand the Role**: Research what a manager's role involves in your specific context.
- **Responsibility**: Be ready to shoulder the responsibility for both your team's successes and failures.
11. Find a Mentor:
- **Guidance from Leaders**: Seek advice from seasoned leaders or managers who can offer insight and guidance.
12. Apply Thoughtfully:
- **Internal Opportunities**: Look for management roles within your current organization.
- **Tailored Applications**: When applying externally, customize your resume and cover letter to spotlight your leadership experience and potential.
Remember, the journey to management requires patience and perseverance. Landing a management role often involves a blend of the right opportunities and timing, along with skill and readiness. Keep learning and striving for excellence in your current role, and the doors will eventually open.
1. Hone Your Leadership Skills:
- **Lead by Example**: Show the kind of behavior, work commitment, and attitude you'd want from your team.
- **Communicate Effectively**: Master the art of expressing your thoughts clearly and actively listening to your team.
- **Conflict Resolution**: Get good at handling disagreements and finding solutions.
2. Gather Relevant Experience:
- **Understand the Field**: Get a thorough grasp of the industry and the specific area you aim to manage.
- **Take Initiative**: Step up for projects that let you take the lead or show your leadership skills.
- **Seek Out Leadership Roles**: Even in non-managerial roles, find chances to lead a team.
3. Boost Your Management Knowledge:
- **Formal Education**: Think about pursuing degrees or certifications in business management or a related field.
- **Professional Development**: Participate in workshops, seminars, and courses on management techniques.
- **Stay Updated**: Stay on top of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in management.
4. Polish Your People Skills:
- **Team Building**: Learn how to inspire a team and create a cooperative environment.
- **Mentoring**: Look for mentoring opportunities, either as a mentor or a mentee.
- **Networking**: Forge connections within your industry and profession.
5. Grasp Business Basics:
- **Financial Acumen**: Gain a solid understanding of budgeting, financial reporting, and financial decision-making.
- **Strategic Thinking**: Learn to devise strategies that sync with the organization's objectives.
- **Operational Knowledge**: Understand how different parts of the business function and how they link together.
6. Define Clear Goals and Map Your Career Path:
- **Career Pathing**: Determine the steps needed to move from your current role to a management position.
- **Performance Goals**: Set and achieve performance goals that highlight your management potential.
7. Show Professionalism:
- **Work Ethic**: Be recognized for your dependability, commitment, and ethical behavior.
- **Continuous Improvement**: Always be on the lookout for ways to enhance your performance and that of your team.
8. Welcome Feedback and Act on It:
- **Constructive Criticism**: Embrace feedback and use it for professional growth.
- **Self-Assessment**: Regularly review your strengths and areas that need improvement.
9. Be Flexible:
- **Change Management**: Master the skill of guiding and leading through change.
- **Innovation**: Promote and apply innovative ideas and solutions.
10. Get Ready for Responsibilities:
- **Understand the Role**: Research what a manager's role involves in your specific context.
- **Responsibility**: Be ready to shoulder the responsibility for both your team's successes and failures.
11. Find a Mentor:
- **Guidance from Leaders**: Seek advice from seasoned leaders or managers who can offer insight and guidance.
12. Apply Thoughtfully:
- **Internal Opportunities**: Look for management roles within your current organization.
- **Tailored Applications**: When applying externally, customize your resume and cover letter to spotlight your leadership experience and potential.
Remember, the journey to management requires patience and perseverance. Landing a management role often involves a blend of the right opportunities and timing, along with skill and readiness. Keep learning and striving for excellence in your current role, and the doors will eventually open.
david kirk
Retired Computing Manager
472
Answers
Syracuse, New York
Updated
david’s Answer
I suggest you first evaluate why you want to be a manager.
- managers are accountable for the details, not the creative discoveries
- managers are accountable for recording successes, not creating successes
- managers are the enforcers of policy, even when unpopular for employees
- managers are routinely the first to go when companies streamline their organizations for more efficiency
Those statements are not always true, but are often true. To be a manager, you need to convince upper management that you have the organizational skills, and the loyalty to put in whatever hours are needed, to achieve objectives that are given to you. Be sure in college to take courses that polish the skills of organization, delegation, financial management. Pursuing an MBA is always a positive. Your success will be assessed by how successful your subordinates are. I spent many years as an individual contributor and many years as a manager. Each had different ways of feeling successful. I wish you well in your pursuits.
- managers are accountable for the details, not the creative discoveries
- managers are accountable for recording successes, not creating successes
- managers are the enforcers of policy, even when unpopular for employees
- managers are routinely the first to go when companies streamline their organizations for more efficiency
Those statements are not always true, but are often true. To be a manager, you need to convince upper management that you have the organizational skills, and the loyalty to put in whatever hours are needed, to achieve objectives that are given to you. Be sure in college to take courses that polish the skills of organization, delegation, financial management. Pursuing an MBA is always a positive. Your success will be assessed by how successful your subordinates are. I spent many years as an individual contributor and many years as a manager. Each had different ways of feeling successful. I wish you well in your pursuits.
Thank you, david!
Ayomide
Sri Krishnamurthy
Technology Strategist
3
Answers
New Jersey, New Jersey
Updated
Sri’s Answer
In order to excel as a manager, it's crucial that you have a solid understanding of the work your team is engaged in, as well as an overarching grasp of the team's strategy and purpose. You should be aware of the broader direction in which they should be steering their efforts.
While you don't necessarily need to be an expert in the specifics of their tasks - for instance, you don't need to be a coder to manage a software development team - it's beneficial if you have some knowledge. What's more important is your ability to guide the team, advising on the best tools to use, setting deadlines, and ensuring there's enough work during slower periods while effectively managing the workload during busier times. Your role is to prioritize tasks for your team.
Essential skills for a successful manager include people management, empathy, patience, impartiality, time management, conflict resolution, and other leadership qualities.
While anyone can be appointed as a manager, to truly shine in this role and gain your team's respect, you need to cultivate these skills. Remember, being a good manager isn't just about the title, it's about earning the trust and respect of your team through effective leadership.
While you don't necessarily need to be an expert in the specifics of their tasks - for instance, you don't need to be a coder to manage a software development team - it's beneficial if you have some knowledge. What's more important is your ability to guide the team, advising on the best tools to use, setting deadlines, and ensuring there's enough work during slower periods while effectively managing the workload during busier times. Your role is to prioritize tasks for your team.
Essential skills for a successful manager include people management, empathy, patience, impartiality, time management, conflict resolution, and other leadership qualities.
While anyone can be appointed as a manager, to truly shine in this role and gain your team's respect, you need to cultivate these skills. Remember, being a good manager isn't just about the title, it's about earning the trust and respect of your team through effective leadership.
Manoubia Boukhris
4
Answers
Tunis, Tunisia
Updated
Manoubia’s Answer
if we are discussing the people managing it can be some native skills to have and to build on and to improve
The project managing is something to learn and a lot of training are available
The project managing is something to learn and a lot of training are available
Brooke Harvey
Consultant
1
Answer
Hoboken, New Jersey
Updated
Brooke’s Answer
Informational Interviewing is a great way to learn more about what Mangers do, and how to become one.
What is an informational interview? It is when you ask someone questions to find out more information. In an informational inteview you are not asking for a job or trying to get a job, you are trying to get information.
You can do an informational interview with anyone. Start by looking around to those you interact with on a daily basis (for example, this could be a neighbor, an employee at a store you go to) and ask yourself if what they're doing seems like it could be interesting. If yes, then ask them if you can ask them some questions about their job. Some good questions for informational interviews could be:
1) What do you do for work?
2) What do you do during your average day?
3) What do you like/not like about your job?
4) What are the requirements for applying to a job like yours?
5) How did you get the job you are currently in?
6) Do you have any recommendations for someone who is looking to get a job like yours?
7) Is there anyone else you would recommend I speak to?
Good luck!
What is an informational interview? It is when you ask someone questions to find out more information. In an informational inteview you are not asking for a job or trying to get a job, you are trying to get information.
You can do an informational interview with anyone. Start by looking around to those you interact with on a daily basis (for example, this could be a neighbor, an employee at a store you go to) and ask yourself if what they're doing seems like it could be interesting. If yes, then ask them if you can ask them some questions about their job. Some good questions for informational interviews could be:
1) What do you do for work?
2) What do you do during your average day?
3) What do you like/not like about your job?
4) What are the requirements for applying to a job like yours?
5) How did you get the job you are currently in?
6) Do you have any recommendations for someone who is looking to get a job like yours?
7) Is there anyone else you would recommend I speak to?
Good luck!
Brian Baptista
Financial Accounting
7
Answers
Rocklin
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Being a good manager takes a lot of different traits. Yes, you have to know what needs to be done and how to do it, but being a strong and well respected manager is actually more about being a leader. For example, you have to positively influence the people who work for you, setting a course of directions for your team to follow, assigning accountability and clearly setting expectations. Those are just a few.
You also have to be flexible and willing to adjust your approach depending on the situation. For example, you must be firm at times yet understanding as well. You need to give direction yet be open to listening to feedback. You need to be actively involved, and sometimes step back and let others take over and complete the task. It’s knowing where to insert yourself for the good of the individual but also for the team’s success overall.
Just know you can’t jump in and be a manager, it’s going to take some time and experience. I would suggest joining clubs and perhaps volunteering at events where you can start to take a lead position on tasks where you can work on these skills and characteristics. Also, observe what other leaders and manager do and how they interact. Note their approach and what influenced you on one hand or felt wasn’t as helpful on the other. Were they prepared or off the cuff – did that work? Were they overly involved and oversaw everything or were they completely hands off? It’s difficult because every situation is different and every individual responds differently. What’s important is that you be genuine and don’t be someone you are not. You’ve got to create your own professional and managerial style and continue to refine it as your career continues. It’s more of a continued journey than arriving at a final destination. Good luck.
You also have to be flexible and willing to adjust your approach depending on the situation. For example, you must be firm at times yet understanding as well. You need to give direction yet be open to listening to feedback. You need to be actively involved, and sometimes step back and let others take over and complete the task. It’s knowing where to insert yourself for the good of the individual but also for the team’s success overall.
Just know you can’t jump in and be a manager, it’s going to take some time and experience. I would suggest joining clubs and perhaps volunteering at events where you can start to take a lead position on tasks where you can work on these skills and characteristics. Also, observe what other leaders and manager do and how they interact. Note their approach and what influenced you on one hand or felt wasn’t as helpful on the other. Were they prepared or off the cuff – did that work? Were they overly involved and oversaw everything or were they completely hands off? It’s difficult because every situation is different and every individual responds differently. What’s important is that you be genuine and don’t be someone you are not. You’ve got to create your own professional and managerial style and continue to refine it as your career continues. It’s more of a continued journey than arriving at a final destination. Good luck.
Ryan Codi
Technology Manager
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Becoming a manager can be achieved in numerous ways, and the path can vary significantly based on the industry you're interested in. In my experience, it began with displaying an interest in my colleagues and company, beyond just my personal tasks. It's crucial to demonstrate a broader perspective, rather than solely focusing on your individual contributions. Steve Jobs once said that the most effective managers are those who were excellent team players and chose to become managers to accomplish more, not just to wield authority.
Once you attain a managerial role, I recommend you to be an exceptional mentor and guide to your team. The mark of a great manager is the ability to bring out the best in their team and facilitate their growth, even if it means they might eventually leave the team. Wishing you all the best in your journey!
Once you attain a managerial role, I recommend you to be an exceptional mentor and guide to your team. The mark of a great manager is the ability to bring out the best in their team and facilitate their growth, even if it means they might eventually leave the team. Wishing you all the best in your journey!